By Ashley Reyes

SEMA's inaugural General Membership Meeting at the 2023 SEMA Show provided business members with essential knowledge on the state of the industry, year-round benefits and the association's latest initiatives to help aftermarket businesses grow and succeed. Following is a recap of information covered during the event. 

"Economic Impact Report" 

SEMA released its first-ever "Economic Impact Report," illustrating the significant impact the industry has on America's economy and what it means for people across the country. Findings include that the total economic output of the automotive aftermarket industry is $336 billion. It supports 1.3 million jobs, pays $104 billion in total wages and $41 billion in taxes. Additionally, consumers spent $52 billion on specialty automotive aftermarket products in 2022.

This is important because it helps SEMA educate legislators about the contribution the industry makes to the American economy and the negative impact harmful legislation can have on the automotive aftermarket. 

Advocacy 

SEMA advocacy activities are grounded in the association's commitment to safeguard the interests of the automotive specialty-equipment market and performance racing industries.

SEMA's experts in Washington, D.C., have seen firsthand how the decisions made in Congress and the halls of state capitols can have a lasting impact on the association's members and the industry more broadly—from how automotive aftermarket products are made, distributed and marketed. That's why the public and government affairs team is advocating for policy issues that are core to the association's mission by ensuring policymakers hear a clear, strong and unified voice representing not only SEMA members, but also the specialty-equipment industry and auto enthusiasts.

Learn more about key advocacy issues and how best to support here. 

Current Initiatives and the Future of SEMA 

SEMA is focused on building and fostering communities of impact. 

Part of that effort this year focused on SEMA Individual Membership to help galvanize and strengthen SEMA's collective reach by creating a space for enthusiasts to be a part of the Association.  

Joining Industry Communities, Councils and Networks

SEMA members are invited and encouraged to increase their involvement and participation in the industry by volunteering for a leadership role. Volunteers are vital to shaping the industry and addressing issues or concerns. When you raise your hand to volunteer, you'll receive leadership development training and work with SEMA staff to build community within your market segment or group. Our volunteers create awareness with legislative leaders, identify challenges and develop solutions to strengthen the industry. Most of all, you will be contributing to and be a part of something bigger. Learn more today!

Additionally, SEMA assembled a task force to understand how the association can reach and welcome new and diverse members. Looking to the future, SEMA aims to continue to reach new audiences, grow membership and create a welcoming environment for everyone who wants to be a part of the SEMA community.

Your Membership 

SEMA is continuously releasing new content and benefits to provide the marketplaces and tools that address the needs of its members and industry. Take full advantage of your membership by accessing free market research reports and education, as well as exclusive discounts on services from SEMA Data, SEMA Garage and the online SEMA Career Center. More information can be found here. 

Have questions about SEMA Membership? Contact the SEMA Membership Team at 909-610-2030 or member@sema.org. 

By SEMA News Editors

Media registration for the 2024 MPMC Media Trade Conference is now open. The event will take place in person at the Embassy Suites Anaheim South in the city of Garden Grove, California, January 30-February 1, 2024. There is no cost for media to participate.

Unlike traditional trade shows or conferences, the Media Trade Conference consists of private, uninterrupted meetings where media members can interview and learn about a company's product and news.

Journalists, editors, writers, producers, podcasters, content creators and social-media influencers are invited to meet one-on-one with leading motorsports parts manufacturers by signing up for the event. Media can indicate which companies best meet their editorial needs and will receive a personalized schedule.

The Media Trade Conference is the best and most efficient way for media to connect with motorsports parts manufacturers in private, quality meetings.

Media are invited to register before December 15, 2023, to get the best possible schedule and to receive your schedule in advance. Otherwise, a schedule will be available onsite at registration.

For questions or more information, contact Juan Torres at juant@sema.org.

By SEMA's Washington, D.C., office

The U.S. House of Representatives passed the "Choice in Automobile Retail Sales (CARS) Act" (H.R. 4468) with bipartisan support (221 to 197), with five Democrats and each Republican member voting for the bill. If passed into law, the SEMA-supported bill would prohibit the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) from finalizing the agency’s proposed federal emissions standards for light- and medium-duty motor vehicles model years '27 to '32, which intends for electric vehicles (EVs) to make up 67% of all new vehicles sales by 2032. The CARS Act also prevents future EPA motor-vehicle emissions regulations that would mandate certain technologies or limit the availability of vehicles based on engine type.

The passage of the CARS Act comes just days after American Fuel and Petrochemical Manufacturers (AFPM) released the results of a national survey that found 60% of likely voters oppose the EPA’s proposed EV mandates. A further breakdown of likely voters found that the majority of Republicans (87%) and Independents (61%) oppose the EPA’s de facto internal combustion engine (ICE) ban, while Democrats are split on the matter (41% support, 32% oppose 27% undecided).

SEMA thanks Rep. Tim Walberg (R-MI) for introducing and championing the CARS Act to ensure that the EPA’s push to decarbonize transportation remains technology-neutral and does not favor one vehicle technology over another. The specialty automotive aftermarket has a forward-looking vision that embraces new technology to make vehicles cleaner and more efficient, which includes hydrogen, electric, alternative fuels and continuing to improve the internal combustion engine.

If the CARS Act becomes law, it would block the most aggressive tailpipe emissions ever proposed. SEMA President and CEO Mike Spagnola and member companies have been vocal in opposing the EPA’s proposed rule. If the rule is finalized, the EPA estimates 67% of new sedans, crossovers, SUVs and light-truck purchases would be electric by 2032, while EVs would make up 50% of bus and garbage trucks, 35% of short-haul freight tractors and 25% of long-haul freight tractors.

U.S. Senators Mike Crapo (R-ID) and Pete Ricketts (R-NE) introduced a bipartisan companion version of the CARS Act in the Senate, S. 3094. The bill has 33 co-sponsors and awaits consideration in the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee.

Click here to send your U.S. Senators a letter asking them to support the CARS Act by co-sponsoring S. 3094.

For more information, visit sema.org/EPA-Proposed-Greenhouse-Gas-Rules or contact Tiffany Cipoletti at tiffanyc@sema.org.  

By SEMA's Washington, D.C., office

The U.S. House of Representatives passed the "Choice in Automobile Retail Sales (CARS) Act" (H.R. 4468) with bipartisan support (221 to 197), with five Democrats and each Republican member voting for the bill. If passed into law, the SEMA-supported bill would prohibit the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) from finalizing the agency’s proposed federal emissions standards for light- and medium-duty motor vehicles model years '27 to '32, which intends for electric vehicles (EVs) to make up 67% of all new vehicles sales by 2032. The CARS Act also prevents future EPA motor-vehicle emissions regulations that would mandate certain technologies or limit the availability of vehicles based on engine type.

The passage of the CARS Act comes just days after American Fuel and Petrochemical Manufacturers (AFPM) released the results of a national survey that found 60% of likely voters oppose the EPA’s proposed EV mandates. A further breakdown of likely voters found that the majority of Republicans (87%) and Independents (61%) oppose the EPA’s de facto internal combustion engine (ICE) ban, while Democrats are split on the matter (41% support, 32% oppose 27% undecided).

SEMA thanks Rep. Tim Walberg (R-MI) for introducing and championing the CARS Act to ensure that the EPA’s push to decarbonize transportation remains technology-neutral and does not favor one vehicle technology over another. The specialty automotive aftermarket has a forward-looking vision that embraces new technology to make vehicles cleaner and more efficient, which includes hydrogen, electric, alternative fuels and continuing to improve the internal combustion engine.

If the CARS Act becomes law, it would block the most aggressive tailpipe emissions ever proposed. SEMA President and CEO Mike Spagnola and member companies have been vocal in opposing the EPA’s proposed rule. If the rule is finalized, the EPA estimates 67% of new sedans, crossovers, SUVs and light-truck purchases would be electric by 2032, while EVs would make up 50% of bus and garbage trucks, 35% of short-haul freight tractors and 25% of long-haul freight tractors.

U.S. Senators Mike Crapo (R-ID) and Pete Ricketts (R-NE) introduced a bipartisan companion version of the CARS Act in the Senate, S. 3094. The bill has 33 co-sponsors and awaits consideration in the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee.

Click here to send your U.S. Senators a letter asking them to support the CARS Act by co-sponsoring S. 3094.

For more information, visit sema.org/EPA-Proposed-Greenhouse-Gas-Rules or contact Tiffany Cipoletti at tiffanyc@sema.org.  

By SEMA News Editors

Doug Duchardt Named President of Spire Motorsports

Spire Motorsports has named NASCAR industry executive Doug Duchardt as its president.

Duchardt comes to Spire Motorsports from Chip Ganassi Racing (CGR), where he's spent the last six years, first as COO and most recently as executive consultant. Prior to his time at CGR, Duchardt spent 12 years with Hendrick Motorsports, where he was vice president of development before transitioning to executive vice president and general manager, directing all phases of competition.

In his new role, Duchardt will oversee competition, personnel and business operations.

For more information, visit spire-motorsports.com.

Jonnie Lindberg Joins Paul Lee Racing as Crew Chief for 2024 Nitro Funny Car Effort

Paul Lee, driver and owner of Paul Lee Racing, has named Jonnie Lindberg as crew chief for the team's Nitro Funny Car effort for the 2024 NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series season.

Lindberg joins the team with previous experience as a driver, crew chief and fabricator, including in the Top Alcohol Funny Car class. Additionally, John Medlen will continue to serve as consultant to the new crew chief.

Lucas Oil Late Model Dirt Series Reveals 2024 Schedule

The Lucas Oil Late Model Dirt Series has revealed its schedule for the 2024 season.

With 63 events at 28 unique venues across 16 different states, the 2024 schedule includes 21 events that will pay a minimum of $20,000 to the winner, series officials said. Additionally, 12 crown jewel events will offer a $50,000 or more top prize.

The 2024 campaign will launch during the Georgia-Florida Speedweeks and culminates with the $100,000-to-win Dirt Track World Championship at Eldora Speedway in October.

New additions to the schedule include Nebraska's Eagle Raceway and Shelby County Speedway in Harlan, Iowa.

For more information, including the full 2024 schedule, visit lucasdirt.com.

World of Outlaws Releases 86-Night Schedule for Sprint Car Series

World of Outlaws has released the NOS Energy Sprint Car schedule for 2024.

The 86-night calendar includes stops at 41 different tracks across 19 states. Four new facilities will join the schedule, with the series adding events at Kennedale Speedway and Big O Speedway in Texas and Thunderbird Speedway and Arrowhead Speedway in Oklahoma.

The season will start in February at Volusia Speedway Park in Barberville, Florida, and conclude in November at The Dirt Track at Charlotte in Concord, North Carolina.

For more information, including the full 2024 season schedule, click here.

By SEMA News Editors

Confirming earlier reports of the development of a hydrogen fuel cell powertrain for the Honda CR-V, SEMA News sources have spotted a Honda CR-V FCEV prototype in California.

The automaker is gearing up to produce the CR-V FCEV starting in 2024 at its Performance Manufacturing Center in Ohio, according to insiders. Honda is aiming for all global sales to be comprised of electric vehicles (EVs) and fuel cell electric vehicles (FCEVs) by 2040.

While powertrain specifications and market availability remain undisclosed, more details on the CR-V FCEV are expected to surface in 2024, likely preceding its launch for the '25 model year.

By SEMA News Editors

In partnership with Toyota, the SEMA Garage has announced a measuring session for the all-new '24 Toyota Tacoma on December 11-13 in Southern California. 

The event will include four Tacoma trim levels: TRD Sport, TRD PreRunner, TRD Pro and Trailhunter. SEMA members will have the opportunity to test-fit prototypes, 3D scan, measure and have a close-up experience ahead of the vehicle's public release.  

'24 Toyota Tacoma Measuring Session

December 11-13, 2023

SEMA Garage in Southern California

1577 Valley Vista Dr., Diamond Bar, CA 91765

View on Google Maps.

Click here to RSVP!

This will be an in-person event at the SEMA Garage in Diamond Bar, California. Due to high demand, each event day will be divided into four sessions, where attendees will have a two-hour window with the vehicles. Each company will have the opportunity to bring up to three employees. Reservations are only open for one session per company. 

For more information, visit the RSVP link or contact measuringsessions@sema.org. Don't delay; spots are filling up fast. RSVP now! 

By SEMA News Editors

SEMA News sources recently spotted a prototype of the Kia EV6 undergoing testing in Germany, hinting at a mid-cycle refresh for the electric vehicle that should hit dealerships in late 2024 or early 2025.

The refreshed Kia EV6 will hit dealerships in late 2024 or early 2025.

Expected changes, according to insiders, include updates to the front and rear bumpers, the lamp unit graphics at front and back, new wheels, color options and an updated interior.

Expected changes include updates to the bumpers, lamp unit graphics, new wheels and more.

Like its Hyundai Ioniq 5 and Genesis GV60 stablemates, the EV6 is built on the Electric Global Modular Platform (E-GMP) and offers 800-volt rapid charging and battery capacities of either 58 or 77.4 kWh. No changes are expected to the powertrain options, sources said.

The sporty GT variant has two engines with a total peak output of 430kw (585hp). The vehicle reaches a top speed of 161 mph and accelerates from 0 to 60 in 3.5 seconds. Other engine variants have outputs between 125kw and 239kw.

By SEMA News Editors

SEMA News sources recently spotted a prototype of the Kia EV6 undergoing testing in Germany, hinting at a mid-cycle refresh for the electric vehicle that should hit dealerships in late 2024 or early 2025.

The refreshed Kia EV6 will hit dealerships in late 2024 or early 2025.

Expected changes, according to insiders, include updates to the front and rear bumpers, the lamp unit graphics at front and back, new wheels, color options and an updated interior.

Expected changes include updates to the bumpers, lamp unit graphics, new wheels and more.

Like its Hyundai Ioniq 5 and Genesis GV60 stablemates, the EV6 is built on the Electric Global Modular Platform (E-GMP) and offers 800-volt rapid charging and battery capacities of either 58 or 77.4 kWh. No changes are expected to the powertrain options, sources said.

The sporty GT variant has two engines with a total peak output of 430kw (585hp). The vehicle reaches a top speed of 161 mph and accelerates from 0 to 60 in 3.5 seconds. Other engine variants have outputs between 125kw and 239kw.

By Ashley Reyes

The SEMA Businesswomen's Network (SBN) has named Nashona Haldane, marketing director at Power Automedia, as the network's newest #SheIsSEMA spotlight member.  

Get to know Haldane in her interview with SEMA News below.  

SEMA News: What do you enjoy most about working at your current company?  

Nashona Haldane: Working for Power Automedia is a joyride of culture, exciting clients and the thrill of the ever-changing automotive market landscape, making each day an exhilarating ride. 

SEMA News: What is the most challenging part of your business or job? 

NH: Navigating the twisted roads of being a marketing director for an automotive digital media company is like trying to find a parking spot during a massive sale--challenging, but oh-so-rewarding when you finally nail it with a high-octane marketing strategy!

SN: How many years have you been in the industry, and what was your first industry job? 

NH: I've been in the automotive and motorsports industry for more than 18 years. My first industry job was as a graphic designer for a motorcycle media publication and e-commerce retailer. 

SN: What three qualities got you to where you are today?   

NH: A turbocharged passion for creativity, the power of adaptability and a fantastic crew of people who fuel my success. These qualities have not only accelerated my career, but also brought endless joy, laughter and the occasional tire-squealing adventure along the way!

SN: Being a woman in the industry, what have been your biggest challenges and accomplishments?

NH: As a woman in the automotive industry, my biggest challenges have been proving that I can handle anything that comes my way, from greasy engine parts and sometimes guys, to challenging stereotypes. 

But I've accomplished more than just learning the challenges of car tuning; I've cut through the clutter to run awesome campaigns, left skid marks on doubt and powered through with a smile showing the world that women can dominate the automotive market with style, finesse and a touch of sass!

SN: Who are your role models or mentors in the industry? 

NH: I've been lucky to work with some really great people and managers, like Jill Hepp, who have guided me with their wisdom and pushed me to believe in myself and worked to show me how to unleash my full potential.

SN: What is the best career advice you have received?   

NH: The best career advice I've ever received is to embrace failure as a steppingstone to success. It has helped me both professionally and personally by shifting my perspective on setbacks, allowing me to learn from mistakes, adapt my approach and ultimately grow stronger and more resilient. It has taught me that failure is not the end, but rather a valuable opportunity for growth and improvement.

SN: Have you always wanted to work in the automotive industry?   

NH: Well, I must admit, I stumbled into the automotive industry like a runaway shopping cart rolling down a hill! But what keeps me hooked every day are the incredible people I get to work with--they're like the spark plugs that ignite my passion and make this ride one wild and joyful journey!

SN: Who was the most influential person on your career/goals?   

NH: I’m not sure if I can pinpoint just one, as there have been many in different points of my career who helped guide me through the maze of creativity and made me realize that a dash of laughter is the secret sauce to success in this wild industry.

Fill out a #SheIsSEMA spotlight form to submit a self-nomination or nominate a colleague and highlight how you or she is contributing to the specialty-equipment industry. Selected candidates are automatically eligible to be considered for SBN's #SheIsSEMA Woman of the Year award, featured on SBN's social media, SEMA News and recognized on the sema.org/she-is-sema website.